First things first: your skin is just as unique as you are! So understanding your skin type and all its layers is the key to achieving your healthiest, most radiant complexion. In this monthly series, “What’s My Skin Type?”, we’ll be exploring all the different skin types, guiding you through their needs and offering the most amazing(y) skincare solutions to help you build the best, most effective routine for you & your skin ♡

This month, we’re focusing on Sensitive Skin, a skin type that requires extra care and attention. If your skin frequently reacts to skincare products, weather changes, or allergens with redness, itching, or a burning sensation, this guide will help you understand what’s behind your skin’s sensitivity and how to treat it with kindness. We’ll also outline a soothing skincare routine that protects and strengthens your skin barrier.

What Defines Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin isn’t technically a medical diagnosis but rather a condition where the skin is more reactive than usual. It can manifest through various symptoms like stinging, redness, dryness, or visible irritation. Often, this skin type has a weakened barrier function, making it more prone to environmental & topical irritants.

Key Signs of Sensitive Skin:

• Redness and blotchiness
• Itching or burning sensations
• Dry, flaky patches
• Breakouts or rashes after trying new products
• Sensitivity to sun, wind, or cold weather

What Causes Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin can be caused by a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic factors*:

• Genetics – Sensitivity can run in families and is often linked to other conditions like eczema or rosacea.
• Environmental Triggers – Pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather can irritate sensitive skin.
• Allergies or Reactions – Fragrances, alcohols, and certain preservatives as well as intolerances in your diet can cause flare-ups.
• Change of Skincare Products – Switching products too frequently or introducing new actives can overwhelm the skin and lead to sensitivity. 
• Overuse of Active Ingredients – Too many exfoliants or actives like retinol and acids can disrupt the skin barrier.
• Underlying Conditions – Skin disorders such as rosacea or contact dermatitis may increase reactivity.

*Sensitive skin is naturally reactive due to a fragile skin barrier or underlying conditions, often leading to redness, irritation, or burning. Desensitized skin, on the other hand, becomes reactive over time due to overuse of harsh products or actives, resulting in a temporarily weakened barrier. While sensitive skin is often genetic, desensitized skin is usually caused by environmental or skincare-related stress.

How to Care for Sensitive Skin: The Right Skincare Routine

Caring for sensitive skin is all about protecting and reinforcing your skin’s natural barrier. Use minimal, gentle products that are free from fragrance, alcohol, and other known irritants.

Step 1: Ultra-Gentle Cleansing

Choose a fragrance-free, non-foaming cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

NINI Organics – Oatopia Cleansing Cream

Step 2: Calming Toner or Essence

A soothing toner or essence with ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera can calm inflammation and redness.

Mádara Cosmetics – Comforting Toner

Step 3: Targeted Soothing Serum

A serum with calming, anti-inflammatory ingredients can reduce redness and reactivity over time.

A. Florence Skincare – Super Serum – Anti-Pollution Fluid

Step 4: Barrier-Repair Moisturizer

Look for a rich yet non-irritating cream with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or panthenol to strengthen the skin barrier.

NUORI – The One Face Cream

Step 5: Mineral-Based Sun Protection

Sensitive skin benefits most from mineral sunscreens, for example with non-nano zink oxide, which are less likely to cause irritation.

Ruhi – The Adaptogen Mineral Sunscreen Face SPF 50

A Few Last Words…

Having sensitive skin can be frustrating, but with the right gentle approach, your skin can become stronger and more resilient over time. Stick to simple, nourishing products and avoid harsh treatments.

Stay tuned for next month’s article, where we’ll be diving into Oily Skin and how you can combat shine while retaining moisture.

Until then, explore amazingy.com to discover more organic, natural and pure skincare products that are suitable for even the most sensitive skin ♡

Cover Photo by medium photoclub on Pexels